When it comes to selling beer, wine, or hard liquor, your business must have permission in order to do so. Whether you are a bar, liquor store, or you are a restaurant, you will want to know what the liquor laws are in your state so that you can apply for the right license. If you are granted a liquor license and don't follow the rules set by your particular license, you are at a risk for losing your license. If your business is highly dependent on the sale of liquor, you need to be very careful about the laws in your state so that you don't risk your business completely.

Know the Different Licenses Available

When you want to sell any type of alcohol on your property, you can obtain either an on-license or an off-license liquor license. The on-license is for establishments that serve alcohol that is consumed right on the property, such as in a bar or restaurant. An off-license is for retail stores that sell liquor that is going to be consumed somewhere else. Beyond the on or off-license, your license may need to specify whether you have strictly a beer and wine license, a tavern license, or a restaurant license.

The Tavern License

If you apply for a tavern license, understand that this is for bar owners who are in the business of selling alcohol. The majority of your business comes from selling alcohol, even if you offer bar snacks for sale. Check with your city government offices to see if there are a limited number of tavern licenses available in your town, as this can make it difficult to get a full tavern license.

The Beer and Wine License

If you have no interest in serving complicated drinks in your restaurant, but you want the ability to serve beer and wine, this is the type of license you will want. You will be able to sell beer and wine products only to be consumed on your property, but your main business is not in selling alcohol.

The Restaurant License

A restaurant license is a combination of the tavern license and the beer and wine license for establishments. While you can serve beer, wine, and any other type of alcohol with a restaurant license, your state can limit the percentage of your income that can come from liquor sales.

When you apply for a liquor license, know the rules in your city and state. Pay attention to the types of licenses available and apply for the one that works best for your business. For more information, contact a company like Arizona Liquor Industry Consultants.